Question

What is the solution to the equation?

3(x – 5) = 8x – 30

A.
x = –5

B.
x = –3

C.
x = 3

D.
x = 5

Answer 1

C. x=3 because you need to distribute the 3 to the x and the -5. This will get you 3x-15= 8x-30. Then, you have to subtract 3x from both sides. -15=5x-30. Lastly, you add 30 to both sides. 15=5x. Divide both sides by 5 and you have x=3.

Answer 2

3(x - 5) = 8x - 30

Distribute 3 into the parenthesis:
3x - 15 = 8x - 30

Add 15 to both sides:

3x = 8x - 15

Subtract 8x to both sides:

-5x = -15

Divide -5 to both sides:

x = 3